Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum

The atmosphere is highly respectful, with strict rules on dress code and behavior. The line was long but moved quickly, and seeing Ho Chi Minh’s preserved body felt surreal. While the experience was interesting, it’s quite formal and not for everyone. Worth visiting if you appreciate history and cultural insights.Access to the complex is highly restricted. We had to leave our backpacks, handbags, and personal belongings in the entrance lockers. Guided along covered walkways, we proceeded toward the mausoleum. Security guards constantly reminded us not to take photos and to keep moving.A solemn and respectful site honoring Vietnam’s great leader. The architecture is imposing, and the surrounding gardens are well-maintained. Arrive early to avoid long lines!

I'm Anthony, and these are my kneecaps. I was allowed in. My shorts were just touching the tops of my kneecaps. I asked the guard if it was a bit higher, then demonstrated to him, would I be let in? He said no. The security is strict at the metal detector. Ba Dinh Square itself is free to visit. The Ho Chi Minh Museum and the Stilt House area are an additional charge. Viewing the HCM mausoleum from the outside is free. There was a very nice volunteer tour orginazation giving free tours. Definitely recommend reaching out to them.

Visited the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum — a truly respectful and historical site in Hanoi. Entry is *free of charge*, and no tickets are required. The atmosphere is calm and well-organized, with clear security procedures. It’s a must-visit to understand Vietnam’s history and pay respects to their beloved leader. Dress modestly and arrive early as it can get crowded.

A fascinating and respectful place to visit. The complex is well maintained and the atmosphere is calm and dignified. The queue was long but moved quickly, and the guards were very professional. It took around two hours in total, including security checks and walking through the site. It was quite hot and humid, so bring water and dress comfortably. A meaningful and highly recommended experience to learn about an important part of Vietnam’s history.

Beautiful grounds with the palace and mausoleum. We went right when it opened at 7:30 and there were no crowds. It was easier to appreciate the grandness of it all without tons of your groups. Much of the grounds are blocked off, but guards were friendly and made it clear where to go.

Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a truly meaningful and memorable experience for anyone traveling to Hanoi. Located in Ba Dinh Square, this place is not only a famous tourist attraction but also a sacred historical site where people come to pay respect to President Ho Chi Minh – the beloved leader of the Vietnamese people. The architecture of the mausoleum is solemn and impressive, built with grey stone and inspired by traditional Vietnamese and Soviet styles. The atmosphere around the square is calm and respectful. When entering the mausoleum, everything is kept quiet and orderly. Security is tight but polite, and visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully. Inside, visitors have the opportunity to see President Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body preserved in a glass case. It’s a powerful moment – not just for Vietnamese, but for foreigners too – to witness the lasting legacy of a man who played such a vital role in Vietnam’s history. One thing to note is that the mausoleum is only open in the mornings and closed on Mondays and Fridays, so planning ahead is necessary. There may be a queue, especially during holidays, but the line moves quite efficiently.

The embalmed body of the great Ho Chi Minh is preserved and displayed here, and visiting the mausoleum is truly a moving experience. It reminded me of my visit to Lenin’s Mausoleum in Moscow years ago — the setup and atmosphere are quite similar, filled with respect and solemnity. As it was a weekend, the place was very crowded, and the heat made the wait a bit challenging. Still, it was worth every moment to witness such an important piece of Vietnamese history. Entry is free, but there are strict rules in place to maintain the sanctity of the site. Photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the mausoleum. Visitors must dress modestly — clothing that reveals shoulders or knees is not allowed. Silence and respectful behavior are expected throughout the visit. This is not just a tourist spot but a place of deep national pride for Vietnam. If you’re in Hanoi, don’t miss the opportunity to pay your respects to the man who played a pivotal role in the country’s independence.

Easily 30,000 people. My advise: arrive before it opens, wear appropriate clothes (full length pants and shirt. Women full length dress and cover your shoulders), and enjoy the scenery while you walk the lines to get in. Great experience